AOD Transmissions

Ford's First Automatic Overdrive Transmission

In 1980 most car makers were switching over to 4 speed automatic overdrive transmissions. Ford was no different. Rising fuel costs and rising fuel mileage standards were forcing auto makers to build fuel efficient fleets. Ford introduced the AOD transmission in 1980. It found its way into many Ford cars like the Mustang and Crown Victoria as well as the Bronco.

Gear Ratios Are:

First: 2.40:1

Second: 1.47:1

Third: 1.00:1

Overdrive: 0.67:1

Reverse: 2.00:1

AOD Performance

Many Ford cars still run the AOD transmission on the street and at the track. Many transmission builders put out tough rebuilds that can withstand 500 horsepower and more, depending on who built and the aftermarket parts used. Today, there are adapter kits companies that build adapters to retrofit AOD transmissions to Flathead Fords, FE engines and more. Fuel mileage is the big thing you can improve if you do change from a 3 speed auto trans to a 4 speed AOD. The improvement can be 30% and more, though fuel mileage is not an exact science and your results may be less. 30% is a common number that many people see with the upgrade.